Campus Design Standards Manager(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Reading is seeking a Campus Design Standards Manager to join its Space & Asset Management Team within the Estates Directorate. This is a unique opportunity to shape how our campuses look, feel, and function, ensuring that internal and external spaces reflect our brand, values, and strategic goals.

You will play a leading role in developing and maintaining design standards, focusing initially on enhancing our signage and wayfinding strategy across campus. This is a visible, impactful role that combines project management, creative thinking, and stakeholder collaboration, making the campus experience more coherent and user-friendly for students, staff, and visitors.

Visa Information: Candidates requiring Skilled Worker visa sponsorship should check eligibility on the UK Visas & Immigration website

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain design standards for internal and external spaces, including signage and wayfinding systems.
• Collaborate with Estates teams and Creative & Print Services to ensure standards reflect University branding and meet user needs.
• Lead projects to update standards, monitor compliance, and report on progress and recommendations.
• Manage the signage and wayfinding database and budgets, providing regular analysis to stakeholders.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all queries relating to campus design standards.
• Project and design guidance: Royal Institute of British Architects – RIBA Plan of Work

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in stakeholder consultation and project delivery.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Creative, adaptable approach with ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite and design software.
• Understanding of RIBA Plan of Work and project change management.
• Knowledge of Higher Education environments and commissioning of design/print services.

Why Join Us?

• Join a forward-thinking, inclusive University committed to excellence in education, research, and campus development.
• Participate in transformational projects that enhance the student and staff experience.
• Work within a collaborative Estates team supporting sustainable, cohesive, and strategic campus planning.
• Flexible working arrangements, job-share, and part-time opportunities considered.
• Diversity & inclusion resources: Equality & Human Rights Commission
• Higher Education guidance: UK Government – Department for Education
• Health & safety guidance for estates: HSE – Health and Safety Executive
• Sustainable campus design guidance: UK Green Building Council
• Public procurement guidance: Crown Commercial Service

Application Process

For informal enquiries:

Applications must be submitted by 16th January 2026 (23:59 GMT). Interviews will be arranged shortly after the closing date.

The University of Reading is a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and fully committed to promoting gender equality (Athena SWAN), race equality (Race Equality Charter), and LGBT+ inclusion.